Sign up to receive free email alerts when patent applications with chosen keywords are publishedSIGN UP

Abstract:

An apparatus for placing a cardiac support device (CSD) on a heart. The
apparatus includes a body, a deployment mechanism on the body for
supporting the CSD in an open position for placement on the heart, and a
release mechanism coupled to the deployment mechanism for releasably
mounting the CSD to the deployment mechanism. The release mechanism
includes a release element for releasably engaging the CSD, and a release
actuator coupled to the release element for actuating the release element
to release the CSD.

Claims:

1. A method for deploying a cardiac support device (CSD) about a heart of
a patient, the method comprising: a) releasably coupling the CSD to a
deployment mechanism of a delivery apparatus; b) positioning the CSD in a
desired position about the heart using the delivery apparatus; and c)
actuating a release mechanism that decouples the CSD and the deployment
mechanism.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the release mechanism
comprises a release element coupled to the deployment mechanism and a
release actuator coupled to the release element.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the delivery apparatus
comprises a body, wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed on the
body and has an open position for positioning the CSD about the heart.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the body is an elongate body.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the deployment mechanism
slidably couples to the elongate body in such a way that supports the
CSD.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the release mechanism further
comprises a release element and a release actuator, wherein the release
element is configured to releasably engage the CSD, and wherein the
release actuator is coupled to the release element and is configured to
actuate the release element and release the CSD.

7. The method according to claim 1, the delivery apparatus comprising: a
body, wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed thereto for supporting
the CSD in an open position for placement on the heart, and wherein the
deployment mechanism includes a plurality of elongate support members;
the release mechanism being coupled to the deployment mechanism for
releasably mounting a CSD to the deployment mechanism, the release
mechanism including a plurality of release elements for releasably
engaging a CSD, each slidably coupled to an associated support member,
wherein each release element is elongated and has a proximal end; and a
plurality of release actuators, each coupled to an associated release
element to individually move an associated release element relative to
the associated support member and release a CSD; and wherein the release
actuators each include a tab operable by a user and connected to a
proximal end of an associated release member.

8. The method according to claim 1, the delivery apparatus comprising a
plurality of release structures including a cord on the CSD; a body,
wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed on the body for supporting
the CSD in an open position for placement on the patient's heart, the
deployment mechanism including a plurality of elongate support members;
and the release mechanism being coupled to the deployment mechanism for
releasably mounting the CSD to the deployment mechanism, the release
mechanism including: a plurality of release elements coupled to the
plurality of elongate support members and movable between engaged and
released states with respect to the plurality of elongate support
members, each release element releasably engaged to the cord of one of
the release structures on the CSD in the engaged state and disengaged
from the cord of one of the release structures in the released state; and
a release actuator coupled to the release elements for actuating the
release elements by moving the release elements between the engaged state
and the released state to release the CSD from the deployment mechanism.

9. The method according to claim 1, the delivery apparatus comprising: a
body, wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed on the body and
includes a plurality of elongate support members for supporting the CSD
in an open position for placement on the patient's heart; the release
mechanism being coupled to the deployment mechanism for releasably
mounting the CSD to the deployment mechanism, the release mechanism
comprising a plurality of release elements each respectively attached to
a distal end of each elongate support member of the plurality of elongate
support members; and a plurality of control mechanisms on the body,
wherein each control mechanism individually moves one of the plurality of
elongate support members such that each support member together with its
associated release element can be moved independently of one another.

10. The method according to claim 1, the delivery apparatus comprising: a
body, wherein the deployment mechanism is disposed on the body and
includes a plurality of elongate support members for supporting the CSD
in an open position for placement on the heart; and the release mechanism
being coupled to the deployment mechanism for releasably mounting the CSD
to the deployment mechanism, the release mechanism comprising: a
plurality of elongate release elements adjacent to and slidably movable
with respect to the plurality of elongate support members of the
deployment mechanism, each release element having a distal end movable
between an engaged state and a released state to releasably engage the
CSD; a first control mechanism disposed on the body for moving the
plurality of elongate support members together with the plurality of
elongate release elements; a plurality of second control mechanisms
disposed on the body, each second control mechanism of the plurality of
second control mechanisms for individually moving one of the plurality of
elongate support members together with an associated elongate release
element; and a plurality of release actuators, each release actuator
coupled to a proximal end of an associated elongate release element to
actuate the plurality of elongate release elements and release the CSD
from the deployment mechanism.

11. A method for deploying a cardiac support device (CSD) about a heart
of a patient, the method comprising: a) releasably coupling the CSD to a
deployment mechanism of a delivery apparatus; b) releasably engaging the
patient's heart with a suction device connected to a vacuum; c)
positioning the CSD in a desired position about the heart that is
releasably engaged with the suction device using the delivery apparatus;
and d) actuating a release mechanism that decouples the CSD and the
deployment mechanism.

12. An apparatus for placing on a heart a passive cardiac therapy (CTD)
device circumferentially extending around the heart, the apparatus
comprising: a body; a deployment mechanism disposed on the body including
a plurality of elongate support members for supporting the CTD in an open
position for placement on the heart; and a release mechanism coupled to
the deployment mechanism for releasably mounting the CTD to the
deployment mechanism, the release mechanism comprising: a plurality of
elongate release elements adjacent to and slidably movable with respect
to the plurality of elongate support members of the deployment mechanism,
each release element having a distal end movable between an engaged state
and a released state to releasably engage the CTD; a first control
mechanism on the body for moving the plurality of elongate support
members together with the plurality of elongate release elements; a
plurality of second control mechanisms on the body, each second control
mechanism for individually moving one of the plurality of elongate
support members together with an associated elongate element, wherein
each second control mechanism comprises a first user interface for moving
an associated elongate support member from an engaged state to a released
state; and a plurality of release actuators coupled to proximal ends of
the elongate release elements to actuate the elongate release elements
and release the CDT from the deployment mechanism.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein each first user
interface is individually slidable over a second or supplementary travel
region to move an associated elongate member.

14. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein each release actuator is
actuated by sliding an associated second user interface.

15. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein each elongate support
member is guided at least in part between the engaged state and the
released state by a suction device connected to a vacuum.

16. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein each elongate support
member further comprises a yoke defining an opening, and wherein the
release elements are configured to be received by the yoke.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the yoke is C-shaped or
U-shaped.

18. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the yoke is constructed
from deformable material strong enough so that the yoke remains attached
to the release elements while the CSD is positioned on the patient's
heart.

Description:

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
11/487,953, filed Jul. 17, 2006, which is hereby incorporated by
reference in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention pertains to a method and apparatus for
treating congestive heart disease and related valvular dysfunction. More
particularly, the present invention is directed to an apparatus and
method for delivery of a cardiac support device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Various cardiac support devices for treating congestive heart
disease are known. One exemplary type of cardiac support device includes
a cardiac jacket for reducing tension in the heart wall by constraining
or resisting expansion of the heart. Devices and methods for delivering
cardiac support devices using minimally invasive surgical procedures are
also known. Such cardiac support devices and/or cardiac support device
delivery devices are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,702,343;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,155,972; U.S. Pat. No. 6,193,648; U.S. Pat. No.
6,293,906; U.S. Pat. No. 6,482,146; U.S. Pat. No. 6,682,476; U.S. Pat.
No. 6,902,524; U.S. Pat. No. 6,425,856; U.S. Pat. No. 6,908,426; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,572,533; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,951,534, all of which are
assigned to Acorn Cardiovascular, Inc. and are incorporated herein by
reference.

[0004] Other embodiments of cardiac support devices and/or cardiac support
device delivery devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,702,732; U.S.
Pat. No. 6,723,041; U.S. patent application publication No. U.S.
2006/0009831 A1 published Jan. 12, 2006; U.S. patent application
publication No. U.S. 2005/0288715 published Dec. 29, 2005; U.S. patent
application publication no. U.S. 2005/0256368 A1 published Nov. 17, 2005;
U.S. patent application publication No. U.S. 2005/0171589 published Aug.
4, 2005; U.S. patent application publication No. U.S. 2005/0090707 A1
published Apr. 28, 2005; and U.S. patent application publication No. U.S.
2005/0059855 A1 published Mar. 17, 2005, all of which are incorporated
herein by reference.

[0005] There remains, however, a continuing need for improved delivery
devices for cardiac support devices. In particular, there is a need for a
delivery device for efficiently and effectively releasing the cardiac
jacket over the heart.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In one embodiment, the present invention is an apparatus for
placing a cardiac support device (CSD) on a heart. The apparatus includes
a body, a deployment mechanism on the body for supporting the CSD in an
open position for placement on the heart, and a release mechanism coupled
to the deployment mechanism for releasably mounting the CSD to the
deployment mechanism. The release mechanism includes a release element
for releasably engaging the CSD, and a release actuator coupled to the
release element for actuating the release element to release the CSD.

[0007] In another embodiment, the present invention is an apparatus for
placing a cardiac support device (CSD) on a heart. The apparatus includes
an elongate body, a deployment mechanism slidably coupled to the body for
supporting the CSD, and a release means on the body for releasably
coupling the CSD to the deployment mechanism.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, the present invention is a method for
deploying a cardiac support device (CSD) about a heart of a patient. The
method includes releasably coupling the CSD to a deployment mechanism of
a delivery apparatus, positioning the CSD in a desired position about the
heart using the delivery apparatus, and actuating a release mechanism to
de-couple the CSD and the deployment mechanism. The release mechanism
includes a release element coupled to the deployment mechanism and a
release actuator coupled to the release element.

[0009] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments
of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art
from the following detailed description, which shows and describes
illustrative embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and
detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not
restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 shows a CSD mounted on an exemplary delivery device that can
be used in relation to embodiments of the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 2A shows a front view of the delivery device of FIG. 1 in a
retracted state.

[0012] FIG. 2B shows a front view of the delivery device of FIG. 1 in an
extended state.

[0013] FIG. 2C shows a perspective view of a portion of a control
mechanism and release mechanism of FIG. 1.

[0014]FIG. 2D shows a perspective view of the distal ends of the support
member and release clement shown in FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 3A shows a front view of the release element in relation to
the support member of FIG. 1.

[0016]FIG. 3B shows the release element and support member of FIG. 3A in
relation to a portion of the CSD shown in exploded detail.

[0017]FIG. 4A shows a front view of a delivery device according to
another embodiment of the invention in a retracted state.

[0018]FIG. 4B shows a front view of the delivery device of FIG. 4A in an
extended state.

[0019]FIG. 4c shows a side view of a portion of the control mechanism and
release mechanism of FIG. 4A.

[0020] FIG. 5A shows a front view of a delivery device according to
another embodiment of the invention in a retracted state.

[0021]FIG. 5B shows a front view of the delivery device of FIG. 5A in an
extended state.

[0022]FIG. 5C shows a perspective view of a portion of the release
mechanism of FIGS. 5A.

[0023]FIG. 5D shows a cross sectional view of a portion of the control
mechanism and release mechanism of FIG. 5A.

[0024] FIG. 6A shows a front view of a delivery device according to
another embodiment of the invention in a retracted state.

[0025]FIG. 6B shows a front view of the delivery device of FIG. 6A in an
extended state.

[0026]FIG. 6c shows a perspective view of a portion of the release
mechanism of FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0027] FIG. 7A shows a front view of a delivery device according to
another embodiment of the invention in an extended state.

[0028]FIG. 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the delivery device of FIG.
7A taken along line 6-6.

[0029]FIG. 8A shows a release element and support member according to
another embodiment of the present invention coupled to a CSD.

[0030]FIG. 8B shows the release element and support member of FIG. 8A
released from the CSD.

[0031] FIG. 9A shows a release element and support member according to
another embodiment of the present invention coupled to a CSD.

[0032]FIG. 9B shows the release element and support member of FIG. 9A
released from the CSD.

[0033] FIG. 10A shows a release element and support member according to
another embodiment of the present invention coupled to a CSD.

[0034] FIG. 10B shows the release element and support member of FIG. 10A
released from the CSD.

[0035] FIG. 11A shows a portion of a release mechanism according to
another embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 11B shows the release mechanism of FIG. 11A coupled to a
portion of a CSD.

[0045] FIG. 14A shows a release structure and release mechanism according
to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046]FIG. 14B shows a front view of the release mechanism coupled to the
release structure of FIG. 14A.

[0047]FIG. 14c shows a front view of the release mechanism de-coupled
from the release structure shown in FIG. 14B.

[0048]FIG. 15A shows a portion of a release mechanism releasably coupled
to a CSD according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0049]FIG. 15B shows a side view of the release mechanism and CSD of FIG.
15A.

[0050]FIG. 15c shows a side view of the release mechanism of FIG. 15B
released from the CSD.

[0051] FIG. 16A shows a release structure and release mechanism according
to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 16B shows a front view of the release mechanism coupled to the
release structure of FIG. 16A.

[0053]FIG. 16c shows a front view of the release mechanism de-coupled
from the release structure shown in FIG. 16B.

[0054] FIG. 17 shows a detailed and partially sectional view of a support
member and release element in accordance with another embodiment of the
invention, in an engaged state.

[0055] FIG. 18 shows a detailed view of a portion of the support member
and release element shown in FIG. 17, in a released state.

[0056] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and
alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example
in the drawings and are described in detail below. The intention,
however, is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments
described. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all
modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of
the invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0057] FIG. 1 illustrates a delivery device 100 according to one
embodiment of the present invention supporting a cardiac support device
(CSD) 104 for deployment over a patient's heart. The CSD 104 may be any
type of cardiac support device, including, without limitation, any of the
devices disclosed in any of the patents and patent publications
referenced and incorporated herein in the Background of the Invention. In
the illustrated embodiment, the CSD 104 includes an open base end 108 and
an apex portion 112 having an open apex end 116. A hem 117 is formed
about the open base end 108 of the CSD 104.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 1, the delivery device 100 includes a body 120, a
deployment mechanism 124, an actuator or a control mechanism 128 on the
body 120 operatively coupled to the deployment mechanism 124, and a
release mechanism 132 (see FIG. 2C) on the body 120 for releasably
coupling the CSD 104 to the deployment mechanism 124.

[0059] The deployment mechanism 124 is operable to move between a first
retracted or closed state, as shown in FIG. 2A, and a second extended or
open state, as shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2B shows the deployment mechanism
124 moved to an extended but not opened state. The deployment mechanism
124 is further adapted to releasably support the CSD 104 and to
accurately position the CSD 104 at a desired implantation position on the
patient's heart. The deployment mechanism 124 includes at least one
elongate support member 136. In the illustrated embodiment, the
deployment mechanism 124 includes eight support members 136. The
invention is not so limited, however, and the deployment mechanism 124
may include a greater or few number of support members 136 in varying
configurations.

[0060] The control mechanism 128 drives the deployment mechanism 124
between the retracted and extended states for positioning the CSD 104 on
the heart. In the illustrated embodiment, the control mechanism 128 is
slidable along a portion of the length of the body 104 to move the
support members 136 from the retracted state to the extended state. In
the illustrated embodiment, the support members 136 are curved so that
the support members 136 form a cup shape to receive the CSD 104 when in
the extended state. In other embodiments (not shown), the control
mechanism 128 also includes means for spreading apart or otherwise
shaping the support members 136 when in the extended state.

[0061] The release mechanism 132 releasably couples the CSD 104 to the
deployment mechanism 124. Thus, once the delivery device 100 has been
manipulated to maneuver the CSD 104 into position over or about all or a
portion of the heart, the release mechanism 132 is operated to release
the CSD 104 from the delivery device 100 onto the heart. The release
mechanism 132 includes a release element 140 (see FIG. 2A) for releasably
engaging the CSD 104 and an actuator mechanism 144 operatively coupled to
the release element 140 to control release of the CSD 104 from the
release element 140.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the release element 140 is an
elongate member positioned adjacent to each of the support members 136. A
distal end 148 of the release element 140 is movable from an engaged
state in which the release element 140 permits the CSD 104 to be mounted
to the deployment mechanism 124 and a released state in which the release
element 140 releases the CSD 104 from the deployment mechanism 124. An
actuator mechanism 144 is operable to move the release element 140
between the engaged and released states. In the illustrated embodiment,
the release elements 140 slide through a channel 156 in the support
members 136. The support members 136 are formed with a plurality of slots
158 to provide incremental advancement of the release elements 140
relative to the support members 136.

[0063] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2A-2D, the control
mechanism 128 and the actuator mechanism 144 are integrated into a
cylinder 160 positioned about the body 120. The cylinder 160 slides over
a first or main travel region T while moving the all of the support
members 136 from the retracted state to the extended state. A second
control mechanism 138 including a first user interface 164 is provided
for moving individual support members 136 from the retracted state to the
extended state. The first user interfaces 164 are individually slidable
over a second or supplementary travel region t to move the support
members 136. The release elements 140 remain in the engaged state while
the support members 136 are moved from the retracted state to the
extended state.

[0064] The actuator mechanism 144 is actuated by sliding a second user
interface 168 coupled to the support elements 140 over a third or
individual travel region I to move the release elements 140 between
engaged and released states. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator
mechanism 144 is operable to actuate the release elements 140
individually. In other embodiments, however, two or more, or all, of the
release elements 140 may be actuated as a group.

[0065] As illustrated generally in FIG. 3A, the CSD 104 includes a release
structure 170 releasably engaged by one or both of the deployment
mechanism 124 and the release element 140. The release structure 170 is
adapted for coupling to the deployment mechanism 124 for facilitating
release of the CSD 104 from the deployment mechanism 124. In addition,
some embodiments of the CSD 104 includes a lubricious element 174.
Lubricious element 174 can also be releasably coupled to the CSD 104 by
the release mechanism 132. Specifically, the release mechanism 132 is
operable to de-couple at least a portion of the lubricious element 174
from the CSD 104.

[0066]FIG. 3B illustrates the release element 140 in more detail. The
release element 140 is in the form of a hook. A release structure 170 in
the form of a loop of cord or suture is coupled to the hem 117 of the CSD
104. In the engaged state, the release structure 170 is coupled to the
release element 140 through a hole 157 in the lubricious element 174.

[0067] The CSD 104 is placed over a patient's heart with the device 100 as
follows. The CSD 104 is mounted to the deployment mechanism 124 with the
release elements 140 in the engaged state. The deployment mechanism 124
is put into the retracted state as shown in FIG. 2A. The delivery device
body 120 is manipulated to position the CSD 104 near the heart. The user
slides the cylinder 160 distally over the body 120, advancing the support
members 136 from the retracted state to the extended state while the
release elements 140 remain in the engaged state. The user may actuate
the first user interfaces 164 to move the support members 136 between the
retracted and extended states individually to more precisely position the
CSD 104 about the heart.

[0068] Once the CSD 104 is maneuvered into the desired position, the
actuator mechanisms 144 are actuated by sliding the second user
interfaces 168 to move the release elements 140 from the engaged state to
the released state to release the CSD 104 from the delivery device 100.
In the engaged state, the release element 140 is retracted within the
channel 156 such that the release structure 170 coupled to the release
element 140. Upon movement of the release element 140 to the released
state, shown in dashed lines, the release structure 170 is released from
the support member 136.

[0069] FIGS. 4A-4C, 5A-5D, 6A-6C and 7A-7B illustrate various additional
embodiments of the control mechanism 128 and actuator mechanism 144.
FIGS. 8A-8B, 9A-9B, 10A-10B, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13D and 14A-14C
illustrate various additional embodiments of the release element 140 and
release stricture 170. The various embodiments of the control mechanism
128 and actuator mechanism 140 described with respect to FIGS. 1, 2A-2D,
3A-3B, 4A-4C, 5A-5D, 6A-6C and 7A-7B may be used in an combination with
the various embodiments of the release element 140 and release structure
170 described with respect to FIGS. a, 2A-2D, 3A-3B, 8A-8B, 9A-9B,
10A-10B, 11A-11C, 12A-12C, 13A-13D and 14A-14C.

[0070] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a delivery device 200 according to another
embodiment of the invention showing an alternate release mechanism. As
shown in FIG. 2A, the delivery device 200 includes a body 220, a
deployment mechanism 224, a control mechanism 228 on the body 220
operatively coupled to the deployment mechanism 224, and a release
mechanism 232 on the body 220 for releasably coupling a CSD (not shown)
to the deployment mechanism 224.

[0071] Similar to previously described embodiments, advancing a cylinder
260 actuates the control mechanism 228, moving the deployment mechanism
224 from a retracted state as shown in FIG. 4A to an extended state as
shown in FIG. 4B. In the illustrated embodiment, the control mechanism
228 is further provided with a locking feature 274 for locking individual
advancement of the support members 236. The locking feature 274 includes
protrusions 278 and keyways 282 formed in the cylinder 260. Rotation of
the cylinder 260, as indicated by arrow 284, captures the protrusions 278
in the keyways 282, preventing individual advancement of the support
members 236.

[0072] The release mechanism 232 includes a release element 240 and an
actuator mechanism 244. The actuator mechanism 244 includes a tilting
lever arm 286 coupled to a mechanical linkage 290. Tilting the lever arm
286 forward, as indicated by arrow 292, pulls the linkage 290 proximally
to move the release elements 240 from an engaged state to a released
state. The lever arm 286 is also part of the control mechanism 228 and
functions as a user interface for advancing the support members 236
individually.

[0073] FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate a delivery device 300 according to another
embodiment of the invention showing an alternate release mechanism. As
shown in FIG. 5A, the delivery device 300 includes a body 320, a
deployment mechanism 324, a control mechanism 328 on the body 320
operatively coupled to the deployment mechanism 324, and a release
mechanism 332 on the body 320 for releasably coupling a CSD (not shown)
to the deployment mechanism 324.

[0074] Similar to previously described embodiments, advancing a cylinder
360 actuates the control mechanism 328, moving the deployment mechanism
324 from a retracted state as shown in FIG. 5A to an extended (but not
opened) state as shown in FIG. 5B. The control mechanism 324 further
includes user interface buttons 364 for individually advancing the
support members 336 and release elements 340.

[0075] The release mechanism 332 includes a release element 340 and an
actuator mechanism 344. The actuator mechanism 344 includes a rotating
actuator cylinder 391 that is coupled to all of the release elements 340.
The actuator mechanism 344 is operable to move all of the release
elements 340 from an engaged state to a release state in unison upon
rotation of the actuator cylinder 391. The release elements 340 each have
an engagement pin 392 that is synchronized with axial teeth 393 in the
actuator cylinder 391. Rotational movement of the actuator cylinder 391
captures the engagement pins 392 at various positions of individual
adjustment of the support members 336. A keyway 394 in the cylinder 360
controls rotation and forward movement of the actuator cylinder 391.

[0076] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate another embodiment of a delivery device 400
showing an alternative release mechanism. As shown in FIG. 6A, the
delivery device 400 includes a body 420, a deployment mechanism 424, a
control mechanism 428 on the body 420 operatively coupled to the
deployment mechanism 424, and a release mechanism 432 on the body 420 for
releasably coupling a CSD (not shown) to the deployment mechanism 424.

[0077] The release mechanism 432 includes a release element 440 and an
actuator mechanism 444. Similar to previously described embodiments,
advancing a cylinder 460 actuates the control mechanism 424, moving the
deployment mechanism 424 from a retracted state as shown in FIG. 6A to an
extended state as shown in FIG. 6B.

[0078] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate another embodiment of a delivery device
500 showing an alternative release mechanism. As shown in FIG. 7A, the
delivery device 500 includes a body 520, a deployment mechanism 524, a
control mechanism 528 on the body 520 operatively coupled to the
deployment mechanism 524, and a release mechanism 532 on the body 520 for
releasably coupling a CSD (not shown) to the deployment mechanism 524. A
suction cup 525 for releasably engaging a patient's heart is connected to
a vacuum source (not shown) though tube 527. Actuator mechanism 544 is
operated in a manner similar to that of the above-described embodiments
to move the deployment mechanism 524 from a retracted position (not
shown) to the extended and open position shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. The
support members 536 can be formed resilient members, and can be guided at
least in part from their retracted positions to the extended and open
positions shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B by the suction cup 525.

[0079] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a support member 736, release element
740 and release structure 770 according to another embodiment of the
invention. The release element 740 includes an opening 741. The release
structure 770 is in the form of a loop of cord or suture that is threaded
through a portion of the CSD 104, with a first end 771 coupled to the
delivery device 100 and a second end 772 that is free. When the release
element 740 is in the engaged state, as shown in FIG. 8A, the free end
772 of the release structure 770 is inserted through the hole 741 and the
release element 740 is retracted within the support member 736. The free
end 772 of the release structure 770 is thus captured between the release
element 740 and the support member 736, coupling the CSD 104 to the
support member 736. When the release element 740 is moved to the released
state, shown in FIG. 8B, the release element 740 is advanced distally
relative to the support member 736, releasing the release structure 770.
The release structure 770 is easily pulled through the hole 741 and the
CSD 104 as the support member 736 is withdrawn.

[0080] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a release element 840 and release
structure 870 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
The release element 840 is in the form of a hook. The release structure
870 is in the form of a loop of cord or suture having ends 871, 872
coupled to the CSD 104. The release structure 870 is captured by the hook
of the release element 840 and coupled to the support member 836 when the
release element 840 is in the engaged state, as shown in FIG. 9A. When
the release element 840 is moved to the released state, as shown in FIG.
9B, the release structure 870 is released to de-couple the support member
836 and the CSD 104.

[0081] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate a release element 940 and release
structure 970 according to another embodiment of the present invention.
The release element 940 is in the form of a pair of pincers 943, while
the release structure 970 is in the form of a loop of cord or suture
having a portion 773 coupled to the CSD 104. When the release element 932
is in the engaged state, the release element 932 is retracted within the
support member 936, causing the pincers 943 to be pinched together, thus
capturing the release structure 970, as shown in FIG. 10A. When the
release element 940 is moved to the released state, as shown in FIG. 10B,
the release structure 970 is advanced distally relative to the support
member 936 and the pincers 943 spread apart to release the release
structure 970.

[0082] FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate a support member 1036, release element
1040 and release structure 1070 configuration according to another
embodiment of the present invention. The release element 1040 is in the
form of a flat rod received within a channel 1056 formed by the support
member 1036. A distal end of the support member 1036 includes an opening
1037. The release structure 1070 is in the form of a flexible band formed
around at least a portion of the CSD 104. In the engaged state, the
release structure 1070 is received in the opening 1037 and held in place
by the release element 1040 which is positioned at the opening 1037 (see
FIG. 11B). Upon movement of the release element 1040 from the engaged
state, shown in FIG. 11B, to the release state, shown in FIG. 11C, the
release element 1040 is moved proximally within the channel 1057 to
release the release structure 1070 from the support member 1036.

[0083] FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate a support member 1136, release element
1140 and release structure 1170 according to another embodiment of the
invention. The release structure 1170 is in the form of protrusions on
the hem 117 of the CSD 104 and each has an opening 1171 therethrough (see
FIG. 12A). As shown in FIG. 12c, the support member 1136 has a distal
recess 1137 sized and shaped to receive the release structure 1170. The
release element 1140 is in the form of a slender rod sized to be received
in the opening 1171. In the engaged state, shown in FIG. 12B, the release
structures 1170 are positioned within the recesses 1137 and the release
elements 1140 are inserted into the openings 1171 to hold the release
structures 1170 in place. Upon movement of the release element 1140 from
the engaged state, to the release state, shown in dashed lines in FIG.
12C, the release element 1140 is withdrawn proximally out of the opening
1171 to release the release structure 1170 from the recesses 1137.

[0084] FIGS. 13A-D illustrate a release element 1240, support member 1236
and release structure 1270 according to another embodiment of the
invention. The release structure 1270 is in the form of a lock housing
positioned on the hem 117 of the CSD 104. A hook 1272 is formed within
the release structure 1270. The release structure 1270 further has a
passageway 1271 for receiving the release element 1240. In the engaged
state, shown in FIG. 13B (release structure shown opened for clarity),
the release element 1240 is captured on the hook 1272. Upon movement of
the release element 1240 from the engaged state, shown in solid lines in
FIG. 13c, to a release state, shown in dashed lines, the release element
1240 disengages from the hook 1272, allowing the release element 1240 to
be withdrawn proximally through the passageway 1271 (see FIG. 13D).

[0085] FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate a release element 1340, support member
1336 and release structure 1370 according to another embodiment of the
invention. The support member 1336 includes a U-shaped yoke 1338 defining
an opening 1339. The release element 1340 is movable from an engaged
state, in which the release element 1340 is proximal to the opening 1339
(see FIG. 14B), to a release state, in which the release element 1340 is
positioned within the opening 1339 (see FIG. 14c). The release structure
1370 is in the form of a projection sized and shaped to be snugly
received within the yoke 1338. Movement of the release element 1340 from
the engaged state, shown in FIG. 14B, to the release state, shown in FIG.
14C, ejects the release structure 1370 from the yoke 1338.

[0086] FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate a portion of a release element 1440,
support member 1436 and release structure 1470 according to another
embodiment of the invention. The release structure 1470 is in the form of
a length of cord or suture that is threaded through the CSD 104. The
support member 1436 includes a pair of distal openings 1437 divided by a
support bridge 1438. The release element 1440 includes a cutting surface
1441. In the engaged state, shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the release
element 1440 is positioned proximally to the openings 1437. The release
structure 1470 is threaded through the openings 1437 and tied over the
bridge 1438 to couple the CSD 104 to the support member 1436. Upon
movement of the release element 1440 to the release state, shown in FIG.
15C, the release element 1440 is moved distally over the release
structure 1470 to cut the release structure 1470, thus releasing the CSD
104 from the support member 1436.

[0087] FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate a support member 1336' and release
structure 1370' according to another embodiment of the invention. The
support member 1336' and release structure 1370' can be substantially the
same or similar to support member 1336 and release structure 1370
described above in connection with FIGS. 14A-14C, and similar features
are identified by similar reference numbers. Unlike the embodiment of the
invention shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A-16C
does not include a release element 1340. Instead and as described in
greater detail below, support member 1336' is passively disengaged from
the release structure 1370'. The support member 1336' includes a C- or
U-shaped yoke 1338' defining an opening 1339'. The release structure
1370' is in the form of a projection sized and shaped to be snugly
received within the yoke 1338'. Yoke 1338' is formed of resilient
material that enables the yoke to sufficiently deform and "snap" onto the
release structure 1370' (e.g., to diametrically expand and then return to
its original shape). The characteristics of the yoke 1338' in cooperation
with the release structure 1370' provides sufficient strength to enable
the yoke to remain attached to the release structure while CSD 104 is
positioned on the patient's heart. Following positioning of the CSD 104,
movement of the support member 1336' in a direction opposite the opening
in the yoke 1338' causes the yoke to deform and disengage from the
release structure 1370'. The support member 1336' is thereby passively
released from the CSD 104 since it was the motion of the support member
itself, rather than another structure, that causes the release action.

[0088] FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate a support member 1536 and release
element 1540 according to another embodiment of the invention. The
support member 1536 is a tubular structure having an opening 1556 on its
distal end. The release element 1540 is an elongate member movable within
the support member 1536 between retracted and extended positions. A
finger on the distal end 1548 of the release element 1540 has a tang 1551
and an inner element 1553 that cooperate to provide a functional
engagement portion. The distal end 1548 is formed with the tang 1551 and
inner element 1553 separated and spaced from one another when the release
element 1540 is in its released state shown in FIG. 18 with the distal
end 1548 extending from the opening 1556 of the support member 1536. The
tang 1551 is formed of flexible and resilient material, enabling the tang
to be deformed from its free or native state into the hook shape of the
capture position shown in FIG. 17. When release element 1540 is in the
engaged state shown in FIG. 17, the tang 1551 is retained in the capture
position adjacent to inner element 1553.

[0089] The tang 1551 of release element 1540 can engage a release
structure such a suture loop (not shown) on a CSD (also not shown) when
the release element is in the engaged state. When moved to the released
state shown in FIG. 18, the tang 1551 will return to its native state to
release the release structure. Locating the tang 1551 and inner element
1553 at the opening 1556 on the distal end of the support member 1536 can
enhance the accuracy by which the CSD can be positioning on the patient's
heart.

[0090] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary
embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present
invention. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to
particular features, the scope of this invention also includes
embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments
that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope
of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives,
modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims,
together with all equivalents thereof.